Des Moines, IA- Oct 11 – On Monday October 8th, Krista Kay, Owner of Go Fish Marina Bar & Grill was awarded the 2018 Industry Champion of the Year Award by the Iowa Restaurant Association for her passion and willingness to speak up to help pass Iowa’s DRAM laws. Kay was presented the award at a ceremony in Des Moines by the Incoming Chairman of the National Restaurant Association Board of Directors Joe Essa of Wolfgang Puck Worldwide and the Current Chairman of the Iowa Restaurant Association Board of Directors Darin Beck of Barmuda Companies. Kay is a firm believer in the power of showing up, particularly when it comes to getting changes made by the state legislature.  Over the past two years, she has made many trips to Des Moines to meet with legislators to help pass changes to Iowa’s DRAM laws. In addition, Kay engaged other eastern Iowa operators in the efforts to bring about reform. She joined the Iowa Restaurant Association Board of Directors and hosted a legislative forum in her establishment, inviting Democratic and Republican legislators, as well as other business owners. “Kris Kay is one of the strongest advocates hospitality operators, particularly those along the borders, have ever had,” said Jessica Dunker, president and CEO of the Iowa Restaurant Association.  “We would have struggled to pass significant reform this year without her. She truly is a champion for the hospitality industry.” A video showcasing Kay can be found at www.restaurantiowa.com. Iowa Restaurant Association The Iowa Restaurant Association is an advocacy organization supporting Iowa’s restaurant and bar industry with educational and promotional programs across the state. Media Contact: Josephine Jensen Public Relations Specialist jjensen@restaurantiowa.com or 319-464-0766